Ground Shipping

Ground shipping moves packages by truck over road networks instead of using air transport. It’s the most economical shipping option for non-urgent deliveries, with transit times typically ranging from 1-7 business days depending on distance.

Ground Services by Carrier

How Ground Shipping Works

1. Package pickup - From shipper location or drop-off
2. Origin sort - Packages sorted at local hub
3. Line haul - Trucks transport to destination region
4. Destination sort - Sorted at regional hub
5. Delivery - Out for local delivery

Unlike air freight, ground packages may travel through multiple hubs depending on distance.

When to Choose Ground

Ground is best for:

• Non-time-sensitive shipments
• Heavy packages (cost advantage)
• Nearby destinations (Zones 1-4)
• Large items that can’t fly easily
• Budget-conscious shipping

Consider air/express when:

• Delivery deadline is critical
• Cross-country speed matters
• Customer pays for expedited

Ground vs. Air Costs

Sample comparison for a 5 lb package from New York to Los Angeles:

Ground can be 50-70% cheaper than air for long distances.

Ground Shipping Advantages

1. Cost-effective - Best rates for most packages
2. Reliable - Weather has less impact than air
3. No weight penalties - Competitive rates for heavy items
4. Wide coverage - Reaches almost everywhere
5. Predictable timing - Consistent transit times

Ground Shipping Limitations

• Slower than air (obviously)
• Transit times vary by distance
• Weekend delivery limited
• Peak season can add delays
• Some remote areas have extended times

Tips for Ground Shipping

1. Ship early - Build extra days into customer expectations
2. Use Saturday delivery - Some carriers offer for a fee
3. Track the zones - Nearby = fast even with ground
4. Compare carriers - Ground rates vary significantly
5. Consider hybrid - UPS SurePost, FedEx SmartPost save more